Pyari Mohapatra has become an non-existent entity in Odisha politics after the 2014 assembly polls. He has been left stranded barring a few party cadres who are still with him. The latest move is seen as an attempt to woo the BJP, which may want to use his experience and expertise against Naveen Patnaik.

However, with CBI upping the ante in SeaShore chit fund scam, it is very unlikely that BJP will be keen to use his services. While some people have welcomed Pyari Mohapatra for joining the campaign, many others have questioned his intention and seriousness, taking a potshot on his wearing the gloves and sports shoes to keep himself safe from the dirt.